Falta de aire al subir escaleras ¿puede ser cáncer de pulmón?

Title: Shortness of breath when climbing stairs: could it be lung cancer? Profile: Difficulty breathing may indicate lung cancer, especially in smokers. Examinations and rehabilitation are recommended.

Author: Zhang Huanhuan, Chief Nurse, Thoracic Surgery Department, Oncology Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences. Wang Hui, Chief Nurse, Thoracic Surgery Department, Oncology Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences. Liu Lu, Nurse, Thoracic Surgery Department, Oncology Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences. Reviewer: Zhang Na, Deputy Nursing Director, Thoracic Surgery Department, Oncology Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences. Note: The cover image is from a copyright library; its reuse may lead to copyright disputes.

Climbing two flights of stairs and becoming breathless may seem like merely a question of 'poor fitness' for many people. However, when this occurs continuously, intensifies, and is even accompanied by a mild cough, it could be a sign that the lungs are in distress.

Shortness of breath refers to the state of feeling respiratory distress or difficulty during daily activities or light exercise. This phenomenon can arise from various causes, including cardiopulmonary diseases, anxiety, excessive fatigue, or other health issues. The degree and duration of shortness of breath can vary from person to person. If it occurs frequently or is accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain or fatigue, medical attention should be sought promptly.

Medically known as 'dyspnea,' patients may subjectively feel that they cannot take a deep breath or do not have enough air. Normal individuals can experience breathlessness after vigorous exercise, but it usually alleviates with 3 to 5 minutes of rest. In contrast, tumor-related dyspnea tends to be progressive and is commonly associated with a gradual decrease in activity level, potentially occurring even at rest.

The second question is, why can lung cancer cause shortness of breath?

1) Tumor obstructing the main airways.

Partial obstruction of the bronchi by a tumor or secretions leads to a reduction in fresh air reaching the alveoli, resulting in a feeling of 'not being able to breathe'.

2) Pleural effusion (lung 'filled with water').

The tumor stimulates the pleura to produce fluid, causing the lungs to be 'compressed' by the fluid, which limits lung expansion and presents difficulty breathing, especially during activity.

3) Decreased elasticity of lung tissue.

The tumor replaces normal alveoli or combines with obstructive pneumonia, reducing the effective surface area for gas exchange, leading to decreased blood oxygenation. The body compensates by increasing the respiratory rate, creating a subjective sensation of 'dyspnea'.

4) Combining with other lung diseases.

Patients with lung cancer often present with COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and pulmonary fibrosis; the overlap of these two conditions exacerbates breathing difficulties.

Three to four 'dangerous features' of shortness of breath in lung cancer.

If any of the aforementioned situations occur, one should seek medical attention immediately.

Fourth, how to differentiate 'dyspnea' from other diseases?

For individuals over 40 who smoke ≥20 pack-years, if they recently experience 'dyspnea of unknown cause,' lung cancer screening should be considered first using a low-dose CT scan.

Five common non-pharmacological methods to alleviate shortness of breath.

(1) Pulmonary rehabilitation training: pursed-lip breathing, diaphragmatic breathing, for 10-15 minutes a day.

Energy-saving tips: shower while seated and place frequently used items in easy-to-reach areas.

(3) Home oxygen therapy: long-term oxygen therapy can prolong life.

(4) Lifestyle advice: quit smoking, avoid going out on days with cooking smoke or severe pollution, and get vaccinated against flu/pneumonia to reduce acute exacerbations.

Six, three action lists for readers.

(1) Keep a 'dyspnea diary': time, triggers, relief methods, and bring it with you to the doctor's consultation.

Individuals over 40 who smoke should have a low-dose CT scan once a year, as this allows for the detection of pathological changes earlier than waiting for symptoms to appear.

Once hemoptysis, hoarseness, and weight loss occur, there's no need to wait; simply go consult a pulmonology or oncology specialist.

Breathing is a very common activity; however, when breathing becomes frequent and labored, do not overexert yourself. Get a CT scan and let your lungs tell the truth.

Health advice: This article is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a basis for diagnosis or treatment. Please follow the guidance of a professional medical practitioner.